The Orquidario of Morelia is an orchid museum that houses approximately 3,400 species of flower. The botanical garden consists of three greenhouses with some outside space. The museum is managed by SEMARNAT as part of a program to preserve wild species.

The botanical garden has a surface area of over 990 sq m and was founded in 1980.

The Museo del Estado (The State Museum) is dedicated to the state’s past and present.

It was opened in 1986 and divided into three sections – archeology, history, and ethnology of the state. There is also an exhibit of the old Mier Pharmacy with its equipment from 1868. The museum is a mansion dating from the 18th century.

The Museo de Arte Colonial (Museum of Colonial Art) holds a collection of documents, old books, religious ornaments, and maps from the colonial period. Its main attraction is its collection of more than 100 figures of Christ done in cornstalk paste.

These figures were created by indigenous artists, starting under the direction of Vasco de Quiroga, between the 16th and 19th centuries. There are also paintings done by Miguel Cabrera and José Padilla from the 18th century.

The museum is in an old Baroque residence from the 18th century. Prior to the building’s use as a museum, it was the site of the first official government press in the state, founded in 1821.

The Museo de la Máscara (Mask Museum) presents two mask collections, totaling more than 165 examples from cultures in twenty Mexican states. It is located in the Casa de Artesanias de Morelia (Handcraft House of Morelia).

The Alfredo Zalce Museum of Contemporary Art mostly contains works done by Alfredo Zalce and Efraín Vargas, both renowned Michoacán painters. It also holds temporary exhibits by Mexican and international artists.

Colonial Zacatecas, Mexico’s second-highest city at 2469 meters above sea level, offers a chance to take a trek back through history with stunning architecture that includes many civil and religious buildings from the colonial area.

The Cathedral dominates the center of Zacatecas City and is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Churrigueresque architecture in Mexico.

Best known as one of the clusters of old silver mining cities, Zacatecas has long been valued for its rich deposits of silver and other minerals. The city also hosts the famous Holy Week Cultural Festival which features more than 50 dancers and other performers.

This UNESCO-listed nature reserve is an outdoor lovers’ dream come true.

Located off the coast of Baja, California, it’s a must-see, with pristine turquoise bays, windswept sand dunes, fiery red cliffs, and rich marine life as part of one of the most unspoiled ecosystems in Baja.

In the surrounding waters, view gray whales, swim with manta rays and sea lions, and on land, you’ll find five species of mammals and reptiles that are unique to the island, including a ring-tailed cat and black jackrabbit.

Chiapas is unlike anything you probably envisioned Mexico to be.

Here you’ll find a land filled with lakes and waterfalls as well as magnificent ruins in the ancient Mayan city of Palenque, nestled within a rainforest along the northern border of the state.

The stunning structures here were built with remarkable artistry, while the onsite museum features stucco hieroglyphs, intricately carved panels and fantastical clay earns.

The incredible detail of the carvings and frescoes have revealed to archaeologists much of what they know about Mayan life today.

At nearby Agua Azul, you can take a dip in waters that appear so amazingly blue it’s hard to believe they’re real, but they’re actually the result of crystal clear water that runs over a smooth limestone riverbed, illuminated by the sun.

Puebla’s city center is also a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its magnificent monuments of Spanish colonial architecture and a colorful blend of cultures.

Stroll its central streets, passing buildings, facades, and gardens that reflect its history, and shop for intricately designed Talavera pottery. Nearby, you can view the world’s largest pyramid at Cholula, topped by a church.

After dark, head to the Plazuela de Los Sapos to enjoy the sounds of traditional mariachi.

This quiet fishing village hidden away on the Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca has become an increasingly popular tourist destination, though it still remains a favorite budget-friendly destination in Mexico.

It’s also under the radar, with the exception of those who come here to surf. A beach break known as the Mexican Pipeline, putting Mexican surfing on the map, brings surfers from across the globe.

From May to July, waves can reach 30 feet or higher. Even if you don’t surf, the experience here is all about the beach, though you’ll also find an authentic Mexican culture and a bustling outdoor food market.

Huatulco is in one of the most bio-diverse regions of the country along the Pacific Coast, about 70 miles east of Puerto Escondido, and also in Oaxaca State.

It boasts a Green Globe Certification for sustainable tourism and features an abundance of eco-attractions and wildlife, along with nine pristine bays and 36 picturesque beaches connected by rocky cliffs that lead to lush rainforest-covered mountains.

Visit coffee plantations and explore pre-Hispanic ruins or enjoy endless snorkeling and diving among brilliant reefs – you’ll be stunned at how crystal clear the waters in Huatulco are.

This seaside village 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta in the state of Nayarit was a secluded surfing town and sleepy fishing village just a decade ago, but that’s changed in recent years, with travelers from across the globe discovering Sayulita’s charms.

Don’t wait too long to visit, while you can still enjoy a low-key, bohemian vibe, unspoiled beaches, and rustic seafood eateries on the sand. If you’re new to surfing, this is also a good place to learn.

While the experience will find plenty of challenges, the bay has a nice break that’s ideal for beginners, and you’ll also find lessons as well as board rentals of all types available.

Just an hour’s drive from Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos is one of the most charming towns in Baja with its quirky mix of New Age spiritualists, surfers, artists, and fishermen.

It offers a world-class foodie scene too, though it’s managed to escape the rampant tourism of other towns in the region.

This unique, artsy desert oasis is tucked among ancient orchards of mango and palm while offering breathtaking views that overlook powdery white sands and the expanse of the dazzling Pacific.

Its rich history with centuries-old tradition and friendly hospitality combined with modern conveniences make it an ideal less-traveled destination.

Morelia is another one of Mexico’s most spectacular colonial cities, located in the state of Michoacan, home to the only indigenous people who were never conquered by the Aztecs.

The state capital of Morelia proudly displays its Indian roots among the majestic, pink quarry stone colonial buildings.

The cozy and picturesque town of Morelia It’s surrounded by villages devoted to the single crafts industry, including musical instruments, textiles, furniture, copper, and pottery.

Several of the most important monarch butterfly wintering sites on the planet are located in eastern Michoacan’s mountains.

The annual monarch migration is one of the greatest spectacles found in the nation when as many as 60 million to one billion of the orange-colored butterflies journey from eastern Canada to the forests of western central Mexico.

Cooper Canyon, located in the heart of the Tarahumara Mountains, is so enormous it could swallow the entire Grand Canyon.

Copper Canyon, formed by the confluence of six rivers, is lush and green with oak, fir, pine, and fig trees. Indigenous people have made the canyons their home for centuries, and living in this remote region, their way of life has largely been preserved.

You’ll need to venture deep into the canyon floor to meet the Tarahumara people. The best way to get there is via the Chihuahua al Pacifico Train which can be boarded at El Fuerte, a small colonial town on the El Fuerte River.

Ixtapan de la Sal is best known for its healing thermal springs. It’s a popular destination for Mexico City residents, located just a little over two hours southwest.

It’s also been an important source of salt since pre-Hispanic times, while its two rivers and the carbonated water of La Laguna Verde, a spring that erupts from the volcanic landscape, served as a public bath for indigenous people.

During the Aztec empire, it was said to be a sacred place for chiefs who took advantage of the warm waters for their healing and soothing properties.

The town is typical of others in Mexico, with high tile roofs and cobblestone streets framed in the traditional surroundings of 16th-century buildings.

This UNESCO World Heritage site and one of central Mexico’s most picturesque and best-preserved colonial towns manages to be cosmopolitan and quaint at the same time.

With narrow cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and idyllic weather, many feel it’s the prettiest town in the country.

Foreign retirees, artists, and writers, mainly from Canada and the U.S. are flocking here for its vibrant art scene featuring numerous studios and galleries with working artists and artisans along with a moderate cost of living.

There’s something interesting to be found around nearly every corner, with its parish church, Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, Jardin Park, and Mercado Ignacia Ramirez a few of the highlights.

The small state of Tlaxcala, located just two hours west of Mexico City offers something for almost everyone, including fascinating sites for history buffs and beautiful scenery for nature lovers.

At Cacaxtla, one of the most important ancient cities in central Mexico, perfectly preserved pre-Hispanic murals vividly depict battles and pyramids from the different stages of the Olmeca-Xicalanca culture.

Its compact capital is filled with colonial buildings painted in warm, colorful hues, all set in a verdant valley with soaring twin volcanoes as a backdrop.

It rivals the Yucatan for restored and ruined haciendas and is also home to over 1,000 archaeological sites. During the summer, visit the Firefly Sanctuary where you can witness countless fireflies lighting up the forest at night.

An ideal destination for wine enthusiasts, the oldest continuously operating winery in the Americas, Casa Madero, can be found in the town of Parras de la Fuente, located in Coahuila state in northern Baja California.

It was actually this very winery that exported the grapes that started the wine industry in Napa Valley, back when the Golden State was still a province of Spanish Mexico.

Its wines are still found alongside the finest in the region and among the winners of international competitions.

While the main attraction here is the vineyards, you can also visit a sacred volcano and the charming chapel, El Santo Madero, which sits atop it, keeping watch over the town.

By visiting the “cave of the bats,” located in the Hotel Antigua Hacienda de Perote, just before the sun goes down, you can see and hear thousands of bats pouring out into the sky as they get ready for a night of hunting.

La Paz was once set to become the next Acapulco – Baja’s unassuming capital remained a laid-back city with just a few tourists joining vacationing Mexicans.

But that’s starting to change, much to the dismay of some, with resorts popping up just outside of town aimed at travelers looking for luxuries that can be found in places like Cancun and Cabo.

For now, the essential nature of the city hasn’t changed.

You can still enjoy a provincial Mexico town atmosphere along with picture-postcard beaches, lively squares, and city streets nestled between coconut palms, old laurel trees, and date palms along with the ultimate seafood smorgasbord.

Plaza de Armas – Main Square

Plaza de Armas is also called Plaza de Los Mártires, in the 16th century when it was designed as Plaza Mayor by Juan Ponce. Since the 17th century, it was used as a place of public punishment.

In 1843 it became a market and commercial center. During the 20th century, it has undergone different modifications, it is currently used as a space for celebrations and religious, civil, mass, sports, etc events.

It is a square full of plants, trees, and benches, dominated in the center by a bandstand, built in 1887.

Plaza Morelos – Morelos Square

Plaza Morelos, located where part of the convent complex of the Dieguinos friars used to be, later became Alameda. On May 2, 1913, the sculpture was inaugurated, from that moment the square was renamed Plaza Morelos, honoring the insurgent José María Morelos y Pavón.

This is a public square, it has a rectangular shape with quarry paving, a garden area, benches, lampposts and there is the Equestrian Statue of the Patriot Morelos.

The sculpture is made of bronze and placed on a stone pedestal, it was the work of the Italian sculptor, Giuseppe Inghilleri, this was the one who won the contest for the construction of the monument.

Plaza de la Reforma Agraria – Agrarian Reform Square

The Plaza de la Reforma Agraria is located just in front of the Temple of San José. The Plaza de la Reforma Agraria better known as Plaza de San José is a garden area with plants and trees, being dominated in the center by a fountain.

The Cathedral of Morelia

The Cathedral of Morelia, a religious temple that began to be built in the 17th century, between the years 1660-1744, took almost a century to be finished, by the architect Vicenzo Barrochio, better known as Vicente Barroso de la Escayola (Italian architect).

Vicenzo Barrochio died before finishing the Cathedral, his disciples were the ones who finished it.

The Cathedral is in the New Spain baroque style and the interior is neoclassical, sculpted in pink stonework, with a Latin cross floor plan with five naves and a transept.

It has two twin towers 66.8 meters high, in a baroque style, on which two crosses stand, it also has two domes.

It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Morelia. Of its religious images, we can highlight the Sacred Heart of Jesus, it is the Patron Saint of the city, and the Lord of the Sacristy (Christ made of corn cane paste).

It has a churrigueresque-style “San Gregorio Magno” tubular organ, with 4,600 flutes, made in Germany in the 20th century, it has become the second largest in Mexico.

Templo de la Merced – Temple of Mercy

The Temple of Mercy, the Order of Our Lady of Mercy and Rescue, “redemption of the captives” or “Mercedarians” arrived in the last decade of the 16th century and in Valladolid in the year 1604.

The convent was completed in the eighteenth century.

The church has a single nave, the baroque style has plateresque and churrigueresque elements, the vaults are lunettes, it has an octagonal drum dome, this was added in the 18th century, the main façade is in the Churrigueresque style.

Currently, the monastery, in its cloisters, is now the classrooms of a school.

Templo de San Agustín – San Agustín Temple

The Temple of San Agustín is considered one of the first buildings that were built in Valladolid (now Morelia) in the 16th century.

The temple has a Baroque-style façade, the work of the indigenous people of the region, the main altarpiece, and the sides are works of the architect Francisco Eduardo Tres Guerras.

The Virgen del Socorro is venerated in the temple. The former convent is located next to the temple.

Templo de la Cruz – Temple of the Cross

The Temple of the Cross was built between 1680 and 1690 by the order of Father Nicolás de la Serna. Since 1920, the missionaries of the Holy Spirit have been at the forefront of the church.

The temple had a large number of works of art, many of which have disappeared due to looting and renovations.

Today it presents an eclectic style.

Templo de las Monjas – Temple of the Nuns

The Temple of the Nuns, the church, and the convent that was built between 1729 and 1737.

In 1730 it was occupied by the nuns from the convent of Santa Catalina de Siena, they remained there until 1863.

Although the church is dedicated to Santa Catarina, it is commonly known as the temple of the nuns. It is striking for the double cover with the images of Santa Catalina and Santo Domingo and its dome.

The old convent today is occupied by the Federal Palace.

Templo de San José – San Jose Temple

The Temple of San José’s original building was a small chapel ordered to be built by Bishop Calatayud.

Later, the church was built at the beginning of the 18th century, in a baroque style, it has a single nave and an octagonal drum dome, it contains paintings de Villalpando, neoclassical altarpieces, furniture, and stained glass windows from the 18th century.

The interior was remodeled between 1875 and 1876, its current interior style being neoclassical.

In 1945 the towers were built. On June 12, 1945, the parish temple was consecrated in honor of San José.

Templo y ex-Convento de las Capuchinas

The Temple and ex-convent of the Capuchinas, in the beginning, was a small chapel, where the image of the Virgin Cosamaloapan was venerated.

In 1734 the construction of a convent began to house the sisters of Santa Clara de Asís, a few years later, it was occupied by daughters of wealthy people from the area and daughters of the prominent indigenous people of Michoacán.

In the year 1901, the convent was torn down and a building was built to be used as government offices. Only the church remains standing, in front of it is the Plazuela Vasco de Quiroga, more popularly known as the Jardín de las Capuchinas.

Temple and former convent of Carmen

The Temple and ex-Convent of Carmen began to be built at the end of the 16th century, in 1593 and was finished in 1619.

The temple belonged to the Discalced Carmelites. The church has a Herrerian-style façade with baroque touches, with a Latin cross plan.

Adaptation work was carried out in the monastery between 1974 and 1979, to condition it as the House of Culture of Morelia and Offices of the Michoacan Institute of Culture, with an artistic workshop, use for cultural events, a mask museum, and a theater.

Ex-Convento de San Francisco (House of Crafts)

The Ex-convent of San Francisco (House of Crafts), the temple was dedicated to San Buenaventura, built between the 16th and 17th centuries, to the south of the temple.

In the convent, of which the cloister with a striking archway is still preserved, in this Former convent, the Franciscan friar Vicente de Santa María was diocesan in the year of the Valladolid conspiracy.

The House of Crafts of Michoacán, which was founded in 1972, has the function of preserving and disseminating the popular craft art of the different sociocultural regions of Michoacán, there you will see a small Michoacán Museum of Crafts and a Cooperative Market, with sales of pottery, wood, vegetable fibers, textiles, metals, etc.

Sanctuary of Guadalupe and ex-Convent of San Diego

The Sanctuary of Guadalupe and ex-Convent of San Diego began to be built in the 18th century, between 1708 and 1716, and was completed in 1716, with a Baroque façade, the interior was decorated by the craftsman Joaquín Orta, in 1915.

The building is dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe and belonged to the Franciscan Order of the Dieguinos.

Palacio Municipal – City Hall

The Municipal Palace was built in 1781 to house the tobacco factory that had been in Valladolid since 1765. The place was the scene where the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla (priest and revolutionary from New Spain) promulgated the abolition of slavery in 1810.

As of 1824, the building is occupied by the State government, although the factory work continued on the upper floor until the building became the Municipal Palace in 1856.

Currently, it is the seat of the Municipality of Morelia.

Palacio del Gobierno – Government Palace

The Government Palace, a 17th-century palace with a baroque façade, in the past was used as a seminary, and currently houses government offices, the Headquarters of the Executive Power of the State of Michoacán de Ocampo.

Inside you can see a mural showing the history of Morelia, the work of the painter Alfredo Zalce.

Palacio Clavijero – Clavijero Palace

Clavijero Palace from 1660 to 1767 housed the Jesuit school of San Francisco Javier.

Currently, it is the Clavijero Cultural Center, where there are contemporary art exhibition halls and concerts, workshops, courses, activities, festivals, etc. are held.

Museum of Contemporary Art Alfredo Zalce

The Alfredo Zalce Museum of Contemporary Art is located in a building from the end of the 19th century. The museum opened to the public on September 30, 1971, being called the Contemporary Art Gallery.

In 1972 it was renamed the Museum of Contemporary Art and since 1993 its name is the Alfredo Zalce Museum of Contemporary Art, honoring Alfredo Zalce, a Michoacan artist (Mexican plastic artist, who won the 2001 National Prize for Science and Arts).

The building was remodeled between 1998 and 1999, the last being in 2013.

The museum has a total of eight rooms, a permanent one dedicated to the painter Alfredo Zalce, and the remaining seven are rooms for temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, both nationally and internationally.

Museum of Colonial Art

The Museum of Colonial Art (MAC) is housed in a baroque-style mansion from the Viceroyalty era.

The museum is dating from the 18th century. It permanently displays a collection of paintings dating from the 18th century in New Spain, using oil on canvas as a technique.

The collection of sculptures showing Christ on the cross, made in polychrome wood carving and the ancient technique of pre-Hispanic origin “corn cane”, maps from the viceregal era, etc.

The museum has a total of five rooms.

The house where José María Anzorena lived, a property built in the 18th century with a strong French influence, was acquired at the end of that same year by José María Anzorena.

In the year 1810, it was here where the decree for the abolition of slavery in New Spain was signed.

The house was restored in 1897, giving it its current appearance.

Since 1922 it has been the seat of the Legislative Palace.

Michoacán Regional Museum

The Michoacan Regional Museum, located in a palace from the end of the 18th century in Morelia baroque style, designer and initial owner Isidro Huarte.

The museum was officially founded on January 30, 1886, and is considered the oldest in the Network of Museums of the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH).

It has twelve permanent exhibition halls: prehistory, colonial times, the 19th century, modern times, the past of Michoacán, a conference room and temporary exhibitions, a library, and a reading room.

Historical Museum of the Judicial Power of Michoacán

The Historical Museum of the Judicial Power of Michoacán was built to be used as the headquarters of the Royal House, later City Hall.

And between 1884 and 1885 modifications were made to its facade carried out by the engineer Guillermo Woodson de Sorinne, giving it a style eclectic. Then it housed the Judicial Power of the State.

Today it is a Museum (it exhibits the history of the Supreme Court of Justice and the Constitution) as well as the Council of the State Judiciary and Archives.

In its rooms are exhibited: Evolution and Development of the Supreme Court of Justice, Iconography of the Judiciary, Evolution, and Development of the STJEM, Documentary Memory of the STJEM, Photo Gallery, Audiovisual and Virtual Toy Library.

On the wall leading up to the stairs, we saw the mural “Morelos y la Justicia” (1976) by Agustín Cárdenas.

Museum of the Historical Archive House of Morelos

The Casa de Morelos Historical Archive Museum is located in a building built in 1758 and inhabited by the insurgent hero José María Morelos.

In 1933 the building was declared a National Monument, in 1939 it was restored to house the Morelos Memorial Museum.

The museum has a total of nine permanent rooms, with furniture from the colonial era, documents, photographs, paintings, conventual books, and historical archives.

Birthplace (home) of José María Morelos

This place is where José María Teclo Morelos Pérez y Pavón, better known as José María Morelos, the hero of the Independence of Mexico, was born on September 30, 1765.

The building dates from the 17th century, at first it was baroque in style with white walls, in 1888 it was rebuilt giving it the current neoclassical style, built in a single nave with two gardens.

In 1930 the building was declared a National Monument.

In 1965, it opened as a Museum to José María Morelos, today it is a Cultural venue, where you can see the works of the hero, his origins, participation in the War of Independence, process, and death.

It also has a library with more than twenty-three thousand volumes with the life and work of Morelos, the history of Mexico, an audiovisual room, and a movie projector.

In the patio there is a replica of the bell of Dolores, the one that the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang at dawn on September 16, 1810, to start the Mexican Independence movement.

Old Hospital of the Juaninos

At first on this site was the Episcopal House, at the beginning of the 18th century the bishop of Michoacán, Juan Ortega y Montañéz, gave this house the condition and the use of a Royal hospital.

In 1794 the nuns of San Juan de Dios arrived here.

In 1866 this place became a hotel, at first called Hotel Oseguera, in 1886 the building was remodeled by engineer Guillermo Wodon de Sorinne, to become the Hotel Los Juaninos, and to this day shops are housed on the ground floor.

Public Library of the Michoacan University

The Public Library of the Universidad Michoacana was founded by Rafael Carrillo, Governor of the State, on September 16, 1874. It is housed in what was the old temple of the Society of Jesus, from the 16th century. It houses 22901 volumes.

Colegio de San Nicolás de Hidalgo

The Colegio de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, founded in 1540 in Pátzcuaro, in 1580 became the seat and capital of the bishopric of Michoacán de Pátzcuaro moved to Valladolid (now Morelia), the Colegio de San Nicolás Obispo, merged with the Colegio de San Miguel de Guayangareo.

In 1630 the house where the school was located was rebuilt, the works were carried out by master Juan de Morelia and the façade by Sebastián Guedea.

In 1810, with the National Independence movement, the government closed the school and it was used as a jail and military barracks.

In 1845 some restoration work began on the building, later in 1847 the governor of Michoacán, Melchor Ocampo, reopened the school, but yes, being the property of the State with a lay character, received the name of Colegio Primitivo and Nacional de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, commemorating Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla (student, professor, and rector of the institution).

In 1863 it was closed again until 1867, it was rebuilt again with the civil school project carried out between 1868 and 1885 by Guillermo Woodon de Sorinne (Belgian engineer) beginning in 1868 and ending in 1887, the current appearance dates from that era.

That same year, President Porfirio Díaz gave the school the sculpture of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, since then it is in the center of the main patio, the monument is the work of the sculptor Primitivo Miranda and the pedestal of the engineer Gustavo Roth.

In 1917, the Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo was founded.

Since 1930 the College building has been declared a National Monument.

On the side walls of the second floor of the building, in 1932 two murals were painted “The Defense of Sovereignty” and the other “The Constitution of Apatzingan”, the work of the artist Fermín Revueltas.

Today the school hosts a school dependent on the Universidad Michoacana.

Mercado de Dulces y Artesanías – Sweets and Crafts Market

The Sweets and Crafts Market also called “Valentín Gómez Farías” was created on September 14, 1968, in part of what was the Jesuit College, today Clavijero Palace.

In the market, you can find a wide variety of regional sweets made by hand. It also has a craft area.

Mercado de Antojitos – Snack Market

The Antojitos Market, in 2014 was completely remodeled giving it a new look and providing it with cleanliness and order, it was inaugurated on November 9, 2014.

It is an ideal place to try different dishes of Michoacan gastronomy, at affordable prices.

Jardín de Villalongín – Villalongin Garden

The Villalongín Garden’s construction began in 1788 at the initiative of Fray Antonio de San Miguel. At the first, the garden was called Plazuela de las Ánimas, later its name was changed to Villalongín Garden, in honor of the insurgent Manuel Villalongín.

In its center, there is a huge fountain, which previously was placed for almost a century in the center of the Plaza de Armas, and in 1889 was moved to the Villalongín Garden.

This is a bronze statue of the mythological goddess Flora (goddess of flowers and gardens).

Currently, there are also some letters placed with the name of the city “Morelia”.

Bosque Cuauhtémoc – Cuauhtemoc Forest

The Cuauhtémoc Forest is the largest green space in the city, it contains the Alfredo Zalce Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum of History, an orchid garden, a children’s play area, etc. It is very frequented by both locals and tourists.

It is always very crowded.

Fuente Las Tarascas – Tarascas Fountain

The fountain Las Tarascas was designed in 1931 by the artist Antonio Silva Díaz and the sculptor Benigno Lara.

This bronze fountain is the sculptural group, of naked women, making reference to Atzimba, Tzetzangari, and Eréndira (indigenous princesses). The fountain is a replica of the original, which disappeared in 1940.

The current one is the work of José Luis Padilla Retana, it was inaugurated on May 18, 1984.

Acueducto de Morelia – Morelia Aqueduct

The Morelia Aqueduct dates from the 18th century between 1785 and 1788. The aqueduct was in operation until 1910.

The Morelia Aqueduct is considered the most important civil construction in the city.

It is 1,7000 meters long, and has 253 arches, with a height of almost 8 meters, in its highest part.

Since 1991 it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In 1997 it was completely restored and stage lighting was added.

Calzada Fray Antonio de San Miguel

The Calzada Fray Antonio de San Miguel is a pedestrian walkway made of stone, it goes from the Sanctuary of Guadalupe to the Fuente de las Tarascas. This pedestrian walkway was built in 1732 by Bishop Manuel José Escalona y Calatayud.

Along the road, you can see mansions of colonial architecture.

Flights & Transfers in and from Morelia

By plane arriving at the General Francisco Mújica International Airport, which is about 27 km north of the city of Morelia, here national and some international flights arrive from cities in the United States.

By bus, they arrive from Mexico City, Guadalajara, Pátzcuaro, etc. Renting a car or hiring an excursion.

Morelia is situated in the central part of Mexico, in the region known as the Bajío. The city’s landscape is defined by its location in a valley surrounded by the Sierra Madre Occidental and Sierra Madre Oriental mountain ranges.

Much of the municipality is in the Guayangareo Valley between two rivers: the El Grande and the El Chiquito. The Guayangareo River runs through the city, adding to its picturesque charm.

The region is known for its lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna.

Guayangareo means “large hill with a flat side”. The municipality’s territory is rugged and dominated by peaks such as Punhuato, El Zapote, and the Otzumatlán mountain range, with the highest peak being Quinceo with an altitude of 2,787 m.

The municipality belongs to the Lerma-Santiago River hydraulic region, with the main rivers being the El Grande and the El Chiquito. There are a number of streams including the Zarza and Pitaya.

The most important dam here is Cointzio, with other smaller ones being Umécuaro, Laja Caliente, and La Mintzita.

Vegetation outside the city varies based on altitude and the type of soil. Mountainous areas are mostly covered in conifers while lower and drier areas have trees such as mesquite. To the south of the city is the Lázaro Cárdenas Forest, which is an ecological reserve.

Animal life mostly consists of small mammals, with coyotes being the largest, birds of prey, and some reptiles.

Morelia lies at an altitude of about 1,920 m above sea level. The city has a subtropical highland climate with warm to hot days and cool nights all year round due to the high altitude.

• January: average monthly 16°C
• February: average monthly 17°C
• March: average monthly 19°C
• April average monthly 21°C
• May: average monthly 22°C
• June: average monthly 21°C
• July: average monthly 20°C
• August: average monthly 20°C
• September: average monthly 20°C
• October: average monthly 19°C
• November: average monthly 17°C
• December: average monthly 16°C

Most precipitation falls during the rainy season: from June to September.

The best time to visit Morelia is during the dry season, which falls between November and April. The weather is pleasant, and you can explore the city’s historic sites and natural beauty comfortably during this time.

Morelia was originally founded in 1541 as Nueva Ciudad de Mechuacan (“New City of Michoacán”).

Later, in the same year, it was renamed into Guayangareo.

In 1545, Guayangareo gained city status with the name of Valladolid.

In 1828, the newly created state of Michoacán changed the name of the city from Valladolid to Morelia, in honor of the national hero José María Morelos y Pavón, which is the official name the city retains today.

The name change also aimed to distance the city from its colonial past.

Human settlements in the Guayangareo Valley in which Morelia is located have been dated back as far as the 7th century. Artifacts found here have shown Teotihuacán culture’s influence on early cultures in this area.

In the 12th century, the Purépecha arrived in the valley. They dominated it politically for the rest of the pre-Hispanic period but did not build any major settlements here.

Between the 12th and the 15th centuries, Matlatzincas moved into the area with permission of the Purépechas, who were based around nearby Pátzcuaro Lake. The main Matlatzinca settlement was where Júarez Plaza in the city is today.

The Spanish pushed into the Guayangareo Valley between 1525 and 1526, headed by Gonzalo Gómez. In the 1530s, the area was evangelized by Franciscans such as Juan de San Miguel and Antonio de Lisboa.

What later became the city of Morelia was founded by Viceroy Antonio de Mendoza and a number of encomenderos in 1541, who first named it Nueva Ciudad de Mechuacan (“New City of Michoacán”).

The newly founded settlement grew quickly, prompting Vasco de Quiroga to go to Spain and procure for rival settlement Pátzcuaro the title of city and a seal, to prevent the “new city” from becoming the capital of Michoacán.

The action also required that the new settlement change its name to Guayangareo.

In 1545, Guayangareo gained city status with the name of Valladolid, after the hometown of Antonio de Mendoza. This was part of a power struggle between Antonio de Mendoza and Vasco de Quiroga over the province of Michoacán.

During Quiroga’s lifetime, he managed to keep political and ecclesiastical power in Pátzcuaro despite the viceroy’s and encomenderos’ objections. However, Quiroga died in 1565.

By 1580, both political and religious authority (Episcopal see) had been transferred to the city of Valladolid, moving the College of San Nicolás, which Vasco founded, and laying the groundwork for establishing a new cathedral for the province.

The 17th century saw growth for Valladolid, with the construction of the cathedral and aqueduct. The cathedral was begun in 1640 (finished in 1744) and the aqueduct in 1657.

During the 17th century, many of the city’s large churches and monasteries were established, such as the monasteries of San Francisco, San Agustin, El Carmen, and La Merced as well as the convents of Las Rosas, Las Monjas, and Capuchinas. Churches include La Compañía, San Juan and La Cruz.

But the most important structure built during this time period was the Cathedral. The location of this cathedral defined the composition and development of the city from then on.

At the end of the colonial period, Valladolid was a small city with about 20,000 inhabitants. It was also an educational center with four important schools such as the College of San Nicolás.

These schools would turn out scholars such as Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla and José María Morelos y Pavón, who were sympathetic to the new republican ideas coming out of post-revolution France and the United States.

Demonstrations against Spanish rule had been occurring in the town in 1809, culminating in the Conspiracy of 1809. This plot was discovered, and the main conspirators were arrested and sent to other parts of New Spain, which helped to spread republican ideas.

One year later, after forming his army in Guanajuato state, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla arrived and took over the city, proclaiming the end of slavery in Mexico. The city was taken back by royalist forces soon after.

Morelos came here to try and dislodge the royalists but was defeated by Agustín de Iturbide. Another prominent figure in the war, Mariano Matamoros was shot by a firing squad on the city’s main square in 1814.

The city remained in the royalist’s hands until 1821, when Iturbide, who had switched sides, and Vicente Guerrero entered the city with the Trigarante Army.

In 1828, the newly created state of Michoacán changed the name of the city from Valladolid to Morelia, in honor of José María Morelos y Pavón, which is the official name it retains today.

Although its Purépecha name remains Uaianarhio and has had nicknames such as City of Pink (Cantera) Stone, the City of Open Doors, The Rose of the Winds, The Garden of New Spain, and religiously Morelia of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The city became a municipality in 1831.

The later 19th century was marked by struggles between liberal and conservative forces in Mexico.

During the Revolution of Ayutla, the city was taken by rebel forces under Epitacio Huerta and General García Pueblita but was taken back in 1855 by forces under Antonio López de Santa Anna. Rebels attacked Santa Anna’s troops again a year later.

French troops imposing imperial rule entered the city in 1863, with the republican forces moving the capital of Michoacán to Uruapan while conservative families in Morelia pledged support for emperor Maximilian I, who then visited the city.

In 1867, the city was taken by republican general Nicolás de Régules, and the capital of Michoacán returned to Morelia.

In 1869, during a rebellion against Benito Juárez’s government, General Epitacio Huerta attacked government positions in the city but was beaten back by forces under Mariano Escobedo.

The first factories were opened in the city between 1868 and 1870, along with the first telegraph line. The railroad followed in 1883, as well as street cars.

In 1910, celebrations were held for the centennial of Independence but tensions were high in the city due to the shortage of grain and the continuation of President Porfirio Diaz in power.

One year later, revolutionaries loyal to Francisco I. Madero was welcomed into the city.

In 1914, the capital was moved from Morelia to the city of Tacámbaro. The city was then taken by forces under General Sánchez in the same year, and by forces loyal to Francisco Villa in 1915.

In 1920, the Palace of the State Government was briefly taken over by farm workers and others from all over the state. Isaac Arriaga is assassinated here in 1921.

The city was attacked again by rebels calling themselves “Delahuertistas” in 1924. The fight mostly occurs in the main plaza with the city defended by General Lopez, Garcia, and Avila Camacho.

During the 1960s the street vendors were removed from the historic center of the city, and palm trees that lined Avenida Madero, the main east-west road, were cut down.

In 1966, there was a student revolt at the state university which was put down by the army.

The 1970s and 1980s are marked by construction including the Periferico bypass ring around the city.

During the 1980s, damage due to geographic faults, exacerbated by falling water tables from groundwater pumping was noticed. This problem is similar to problems faced by other cities on the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt such as Querétaro and Mexico City.

In 1991, the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved colonial architecture.

In 2001, street vendors were moved again from the historic center to make the area more tourist-friendly. Traffic was rerouted from here as well with the construction of new bypasses.

In 2006 and 2007, many of the plazas and gardens in the historic center were remodeled.

In 2009, the Morelia metropolitan area was tentatively established as consisting of the municipalities of Zinapécuaro, Álvaro Obregón, Charo, Tarímbaro, and Morelia.

This initial determination was made by the Secretary of Urbanism and Environment, with further refinements to be made as the municipal presidents of these entities meet to discuss limits, strategies, and further actions.

One of these actions has been to establish a formal commission to administer the area.

The Mexican federal government lists 1,113 buildings built from the 16th to the 20th centuries as having historical value. The buildings encompass the various architectural styles that have been fashionable in Mexico.

Almost all these buildings are built of pink Cantera stone, which gives the city a unified appearance.

In 1956, the city enacted regulations to preserve the historic center’s colonial buildings.

In 1990, was issued a decree making the historic center of Morelia a national historic monument. In 1991, the same area was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, which covers 200 of the area’s historic buildings.

Morelia, with its rich history and stunning architecture, offers a lot of points of interest. Here is a list of some of the prominent historic buildings, churches, cathedrals, parks, plazas, and other attractions in the city:

Historic Buildings:

• Palacio Clavijero – A beautiful colonial building now used for cultural and artistic events.
• Palacio de Gobierno – The State Government Palace is known for its exquisite murals.
• Casa Natal de Morelos – The birthplace of José María Morelos, a hero of the Mexican War of Independence.
• Casa de la Cultura – A cultural center housed in a historic building with various art exhibitions.
• Casa de las Artesanías – A center for traditional Michoacán crafts.
• Conservatorio de las Rosas – A historic music school with beautiful architecture.
• Colegio Seminario (today the State Government Palace)
• La Alhóndiga (today part of the Palace of Justice)

Churches and Cathedrals:

• Cathedral of Morelia – A magnificent Baroque cathedral in the city center.
• San Nicolás Obispo Church – An iconic church located near the Cathedral.
• Santa Rosa de Lima Church – A beautiful example of colonial architecture.
• San Francisco Church and Convent – A historic church with a lovely courtyard.
• Santuario de Guadalupe – A sanctuary with a rich history and stunning architecture.

Parks and Plazas:

• Plaza de Armas (Plaza de Los Mártires) – The main square of Morelia, surrounded by historic buildings.
• Bosque Cuauhtémoc – A large park with walking paths, fountains, and green spaces.
• Jardín de las Rosas – A charming garden with a variety of roses and sculptures.
• Plaza Villalongín – A picturesque plaza with a prominent statue of José María Teclo Morelos y Pavón.
• Plaza de San Agustín – A smaller, quaint plaza known for its tranquil atmosphere.

Museums:

• Museo Regional Michoacano – A museum showcasing the cultural history of Michoacán.
• Museo Casa de Morelos – A museum dedicated to the life and work of José María Morelos.

Other Attractions:

• Aqueduct of Morelia – A stunning aqueduct that stretches across the city.
• El Callejón del Romance – A charming alley known for its romantic ambiance.

This list highlights some of the key attractions in Morelia, but the city has even more to offer in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty. Exploring its streets and squares will reveal many more hidden gems and historical sites.

Self-guided walking tour in the Historic Center of Morelia

Morelia offers several great options for day trips and excursions to nearby tourist attractions:

Pátzcuaro: This picturesque town is famous for its stunning Lake Pátzcuaro, as well as its rich indigenous culture and crafts. You can explore the town’s historic center, visit Janitzio Island, and experience the Day of the Dead celebrations in October.

Tzintzuntzan and Tarascan ruins: Just a short drive from Pátzcuaro, Tzintzuntzan is home to ancient Tarascan ruins. The Yacatas pyramids are a must-see, providing insight into the pre-Hispanic history of the region.

Santa Clara del Cobre: This town is known for its skilled copper artisans. You can watch craftsmen at work, shop for unique copperware, and learn about the traditional techniques used in this art form.

Paricutin Volcano: If you’re interested in natural wonders, consider a visit to Paricutin, a dormant volcano. You can hike to its crater and enjoy the beautiful surrounding landscapes.

Quiroga: Quiroga is a small town, not far away from Lake Patzcuaro. Quiroga is known for its bustling market, where you can sample regional cuisine, buy handicrafts, and experience the local culture.

Cuitzeo: This town is home to the Cuitzeo Lake, a tranquil spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature. You can also explore the town’s historic center and visit the Ex-Convent of Santa María Magdalena.

Uruapan: Uruapan is famous for its lush national park, Parque Nacional Barranca del Cupatitzio, where you can take a refreshing stroll along the river and admire waterfalls and lush vegetation.

Capula: Another small town in Michoacan. Capula is renowned for its pottery, especially its distinctive Day of the Dead ceramic figurines. You can visit local workshops and purchase unique souvenirs.

Zirahuen: Zirahuen is also a small town situated on the shore of the Zirahuen Lake. This lake is surrounded by pine forests and offers opportunities for boating, hiking, and relaxation in a serene natural setting.

Tingambato Archaeological Site: Tingambato is situated approximately 110 km northwest of Morelia. The ruins of Tingambato feature impressive pyramids and structures from the ancient Purepecha civilization.

These are just a few of the many options for day trips from Morelia. Depending on your interests, you can choose one or more of these destinations to explore and make the most of your visit to this culturally rich region of Mexico.

The Festival Internacional de Música de Morelia is an annual event begun in 1988 by Bernal Jiménez, who dreamed of making Morelia the “Salzburg of America.” The festival consists of more than forty concerts with over 500 artists participating.

It has become the largest music festival in Morelia, with private and government sponsors, esp. CONACULTA. Concerts include chamber orchestras, choirs, ensembles, trios, and soloists such as pianist Joanna MacGregor and the Britten Symphony.

Each year, a different country is the “special guest,” which in 2009 was the United Kingdom.

That year, some of the participants included the London Symphony Orchestra, the Brodsky Quartet, the La Britten Symphony Orchestra, the Coro Nova Scholla Gregoriana Di Verona of Italy, and violinist Tanya Anisimova from Russia.

Participants from Mexico included the National Symphonic Orchestra, the Orquesta Sinfónica de Minería, and flutist Horacio Franco.

The Festival Internacional de Cine de Morelia was begun in 2003 and is mostly dedicated to Mexican cinema, showcasing up-and-coming directors and productions. The majority of activities take place in the Cinépolis Morelia Centro but also include other theaters, auditoriums, and public plazas.

Morelia is the site of the annual Zapata Vive Morelia Festival, which celebrates the life of Emiliano Zapata with cultural and political activities. The purpose of the event is to promote exhibitions by artistic, cultural, and social organizations from the state of Michoacán and other parts of the country.

Events are spread out over several days and include ones such as concerts, round tables, and information sessions. The event encourages those organizations that work with the lower social classes and are politically left to participate.

The Festival de Escala is an annual event dedicated to promoting rock climbing in the municipality at places such as El Paredón de la Noria, just south of the city proper.

A popular festival that features a 3-day Salsa competition in the heart of Morelia is called “SalsaMich”. Typically held in March, the festival brings Salsa dancers from all across the country to Morelia to compete for prizes.

Morelia, Mexico, is well-connected by bus to various cities and towns in the region.

Intercity buses

Here is a list of some of the cities and towns from which you can travel to Morelia by bus.

• Mexico City – approx: 3-4 hours
• Guadalajara – approx: 4-5 hours
• Querétaro – approx: 2-3 hours
• Pátzcuaro – approx: 2-3 hours
• Uruapan – approx: 2-3 hours
• Zamora – approx: 2-3 hours
• Toluca – approx: 4-5 hours
• Puebla – approx: 5-6 hours
• León – approx: 4-5 hours
• Acapulco – approx: 7-8 hours

The availability of bus routes may change over time, so confirm your options before planning your trip.

General Francisco Mujica International Airport

Morelia International Airport handles both domestic and international flights:

Domestic Destinations:

• Mexico City (Benito Juárez International Airport)
• Guadalajara (Guadalajara International Airport)
• Monterrey (Monterrey International Airport)
• Tijuana (Tijuana International Airport)
• Cancún (Cancún International Airport)

International Destinations:

• Chicago, USA (Chicago O’Hare International Airport)
• Dallas/Fort Worth, USA (Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport)
• Houston, USA (George Bush Intercontinental Airport)
• Los Angeles, USA (Los Angeles International Airport)
• Oakland, USA (Oakland International Airport)
• Phoenix, USA (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport)

Please verify the current destinations and flight schedules with the airport or airlines, as routes can change over time.

Getting around in Morelia

Morelia’s historic center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance of each other, so strolling around the historic center is a great way to see the sights.

In the historic center of Morelia, you may find tourist trolleys or tram-like vehicles that offer guided tours of the city’s landmarks. This is an excellent way to learn more about Morelia’s history and architecture.

Getting around Morelia is relatively easy, and you have several options for transportation within the city:

• Local Buses (Camiones)
• Collectivos
• Taxis

Some areas of Morelia have bike lanes, and you can rent bicycles for short trips within the city.

If you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle, you can rent a car from rental agencies in Morelia. Keep in mind that traffic and parking can be challenging in some parts of the city, particularly in the historic center.